William Albrecht on the Biblical Source of the Papacy

Have you ever been told, “The institution of the papacy isn’t found in the Bible”? In a recent Morning Air episode, William Albrecht walks listeners through the scriptural foundation of the papacy, drawing deeply from both the Bible and the Early Church Fathers.

The conversation begins with a Gospel passage: Matthew 16:16–19. Jesus gives Simon the name “Peter” (from Petros, meaning “rock”) and declares, “On this rock I will build my Church.” Albrecht explained that critics who argue “Petros” (masculine) vs. “Petra” (feminine) are missing a basic point of Greek grammar: Petros is used simply because Peter is a man. The Church Fathers unanimously agree that Peter is the rock.

Even more, Jesus gives Peter the “keys to the kingdom,” which echoes the language and symbolism of Isaiah 22. In that Old Testament passage, a royal steward is entrusted with authority, a model clearly being fulfilled in Peter, not as a figurehead, but as one holding real, divinely conferred responsibility.

Albrecht then turned to John 21:15–17, where Jesus tells Peter three times, “Feed my sheep.” The Greek word used, poimaínō, means “to shepherd.” This moment, Albrecht said, is a direct commissioning of Peter to serve as the visible shepherd of the Church. Appropriately, this was the Gospel chosen for Pope Francis’ funeral.

In Luke 22:31–32, Jesus warns Peter that Satan will “sift” the apostles, but tells Peter specifically to “strengthen your brethren.” The Greek word stērízō implies firm support—again, the kind of foundational leadership we associate with Peter’s office.

Even in Acts 15, where some claim James leads the Jerusalem Council, Albrecht noted it is Peter who speaks first and decisively. The assembly falls silent afterward, and what Peter declares becomes dogma (dogmata), delivered to the churches.

Albrecht also highlighted Pope St. Clement of Rome, writing with clear authority even while St. John the Apostle was still alive. His leadership was recognized because of his office: bishop of Rome, and thus, the vicar of Christ.

This tradition of apostolic succession, grounded in Scripture and history, affirms the papacy as a divinely instituted office. As Albrecht beautifully summarized: “There’s only one Church that can trace the papacy from St. Peter to today, and we’re blessed to be in it.”

As the Church prepares to elect a new Pope, this conversation is a powerful reminder of why the papacy matters—and where it comes from. Let us pray for the College of Cardinals, for the Church, and for the next Holy Father. And as always, continue to keep Relevant Radio in your prayers as it shares truth and fosters revival across the globe.

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